‘Nagas have become complacent in their faith’ | Longkong Baptist Arogo Centenary celebrations concludes

During the devotional session of the Longkong Baptist Arogo (LBA) Centennial Jubilee celebrations (1923- 2023) under the theme, “Declare God’s Evolving Grace,” Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, Executive Secretary, ABAM Impur, spoke on the theme from the Bible (2 Timothy 2:1-2) and gave examples from Paul’s teachings regarding salvation and God’s Grace.

Dr Mar said that it has been 150 years since Christianity was introduced to the region but Nagas have become complacent in their trust and belief in God. He encouraged the church to participate in God’s expanding grace while rejecting all evil. “We have been through many trials and hardships, but God’s kindness has brought us to this point. Do not forget God’s grace, for it is His grace that has saved you,” he stated.

He concluded by urging the congregation to declare God’s grace and live in His grace as they celebrate the centennial jubilee.

Tongpang Ozüküm, Minister for PWD (Housing & Mechanical), delivered a brief greeting address in which he pondered on the Nagas’ history as headhunters and extended sincere gratitude to the village pioneers who embraced Christianity in the year 1923.

Ozüküm remarked, based on his experiences with the village, that Longkong has always been a prosperous and cohesive village.

He concluded by stressing that the Jubilee is a time to make amends and promote peace, and urged the congregation to forgive and form bonds in the name of the Centennial Jubilee.

Earlier, a Monolith stone commemorating the Centennial Jubilee was unveiled by Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, Executive Secretary, ABAM Impur.

During the program, the congregation was enthralled by the euphonious melodies from the Centenary choir and Kohima Longkong Tamang Telungjem while Libena Imsong presented the Centenary poem.

The celebrations devotional service was chaired by Jongshimanen Lkr, Pastor, Kelingmen Baptist Arogo and M. Jongshi Jamir, Former Nagaland Minister expressed the words of gratitude while greeting messages were delivered by the Children of Pastor Lolenliba, Süngratsü; Longpa Baptist Arogo and Imtionen, Former Pastor LBA.

Rev Dr Mar Pongener; Rev Sentisashi Aier, Senior Pastor, Kohima Ao Baptist Arogo; R Imti Imsong, Pastor, Aoyimsen Baptist Arogo; and Dr. Pangernungba Kechu, Oriental Theological Seminary, Bade Dimapur were the speakers during the two day celebration from January 7th to 8th which concluded at Longkong Baptist Church on Sunday.

Mokokchung Times